Framework to be developed to assess aquatic ecosystems from social, environmental justice perspective

SCCWRP and its partners have begun developing a scientific framework to help managers rapidly assess the health of aquatic ecosystems based on the social and environmental justice benefits they provide – an area that has become increasingly important for guiding how aquatic resources are managed nationwide.

The study, which kicked off in February with the development of a conceptual approach, aims to create a framework for rapidly evaluating the ecological health of streams and other aquatic resources. There is no such framework for rapidly evaluating the societal benefits that these ecosystems provide.

The draft rapid assessment framework, which will be customizable for specific state and regional needs, will be piloted in California, Montana and Florida. The framework is expected to be unveiled by late 2026.